Thermalright AXP90-X53 Full Cooper Low Profile CPU vs Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO CPU

Overview

When it comes to cooling your CPU effectively, the Thermalright AXP90-X53 Full Cooper Low Profile CPU Cooler ITX and the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO CPU Air Cooler are two notable options. The AXP90-X53 is priced at $35.90, making it about 37% cheaper than the Phantom Spirit, which costs $56.90. Both coolers cater to different user needs, with the AXP90-X53 focusing on low-profile designs for compact builds, while the Phantom Spirit targets users seeking robust cooling performance and aesthetic enhancements.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 features a compact design with a height of just 53mm, making it ideal for small form factor cases like ITX builds. Its design includes a pure copper radiator and a 92mm PWM fan that efficiently cools without occupying much space. On the other hand, the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO is significantly larger, with dimensions of 125x135x160mm, and sports a dual-tower design with dual 120mm PWM fans. This larger build allows for better heat dissipation, but may not fit in smaller cases. The Phantom Spirit also features a magnetic ARGB display panel, adding a modern touch to its aesthetics.

Cooling Performance

The AXP90-X53 utilizes a 92mm fan with a maximum speed of 2700 RPM, producing a noise level of 22.4 dB(A) at peak performance. It is designed for efficient cooling in compact spaces, particularly beneficial for HTPCs. In contrast, the Phantom Spirit boasts a dual-fan configuration with a maximum speed of 2150 RPM and a higher air pressure of 2.87mm H2O, generating an air volume of 69 CFM. This configuration allows it to handle higher thermal loads, making it suitable for more demanding applications. While the AXP90-X53 excels in quiet performance, the Phantom Spirit offers superior cooling efficiency.

Compatibility

The Thermalright AXP90-X53 supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including Intel’s LGA1700, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, and 1200, along with AMD’s AM4 and AM5. This broad compatibility ensures it can fit a variety of systems, particularly compact ones. Meanwhile, the Phantom Spirit also supports the same range of Intel and AMD sockets, making it equally versatile. However, it is essential to note that the installation of the Phantom Spirit on AMD platforms requires the original motherboard backplate, which is not included, potentially complicating the installation for some users.

Noise Levels

In terms of noise performance, the AXP90-X53 operates at a maximum sound level of just 22.4 dB(A), making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a quiet computing environment. The Phantom Spirit, with a maximum operating noise of 27 dB(A), is slightly louder but still within acceptable limits for most users. The difference in noise levels may be a consideration for those who build systems with an emphasis on silence, particularly in home theater setups or quiet office environments.

Price Comparison

At $35.90, the AXP90-X53 is roughly 37% less expensive than the Phantom Spirit, which retails at $56.90. This significant price difference makes the AXP90-X53 an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers or those who do not require extensive cooling capabilities. However, the higher price of the Phantom Spirit is justified by its more advanced features, such as a dual-fan setup and digital display. For users with a tighter budget or less demanding cooling needs, the AXP90-X53 presents a compelling choice.

User Experience and Installation

The AXP90-X53 is designed for straightforward installation, making it user-friendly for those who may not have extensive experience with PC building. Additionally, the included installation instructions and videos facilitate the setup process. Conversely, while the Phantom Spirit also includes installation clips for easy mounting, users must ensure they have the original motherboard backplate for AMD installations, which could pose a challenge for some. Both coolers are backed by reviews praising their performance, but the ease of installation can significantly impact user satisfaction.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright AXP90-X53 and the Phantom Spirit 120 Digital EVO boils down to your specific needs. If you require a compact and budget-friendly CPU cooler, the AXP90-X53 is an excellent option, especially for small builds with less demanding cooling requirements. However, if you seek superior cooling performance and aesthetic enhancements, the Phantom Spirit, despite its higher price, offers advanced features that can better support high-performance CPUs. Ultimately, both coolers excel in their respective categories, catering to different segments of the PC-building community.